More than 25 swans have been found dead in a London canal, sparking concerns and calls for an investigation. Charity Swan Support reported the discovery of several dead birds along the Grand Union Canal in Bankside, Southall, which has now escalated to include 25 swans, 15 geese, three ducks, two coots, and a moorhen along the canal in Uxbridge.
The mystery surrounding the cause of death has deepened as initial tests for avian influenza came back negative. This has raised suspicions of poisoning or pollution, prompting Swan Support and the community group Friends of Grand Union Canal to demand a thorough investigation. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed that an investigation has been launched in response to the growing concerns.
Friends of Grand Union Canal expressed their distress over the situation, noting that the reports of dead swans have been ongoing since late September. Swan Support, on the other hand, highlighted the financial strain of recovering and disposing of the bird carcasses, emphasizing the need for proper precautions to prevent further spread of any potential illness or toxin.
The Canal and River Trust, responsible for the well-being of wildlife along the canals, echoed the concerns and pledged support for Defra’s investigation efforts. They advised the public not to handle any dead or sick birds but to report such incidents to the Defra helpline for proper guidance and action.
In response to the situation, a Defra animal and plant health agency spokesperson assured that the wild bird deaths in the Uxbridge area are being investigated as part of the surveillance program. The agency is working to determine the cause of the deaths and take necessary steps to address any potential risks to other wildlife and public health.
The sudden and unexplained deaths of numerous birds along the London canal have raised alarm bells within the community and among wildlife conservation groups. The need for a swift and thorough investigation to uncover the root cause of these deaths is crucial to prevent further harm to the local bird population and ensure the safety of the surrounding environment.
